Earn a steady paycheck without ever leaving your house

The Top Home-Based Professions

The Top Home-Based Professions

If you don't relish the thought of hustling to a workplace every day or you're having a hard time securing a local gig, there's never been a better time to work from home: More than 40 million Americans do it, according to the advocacy group Telework Coalition. And as the economy improves, more companies will be looking for additional staff. For most at-home jobs, you'll need a computer and an Internet connection, some basic skills and a can-do attitude. Click through this list of 10 employment areas that are booming right now.

The Job: Survey Taker

The Job: Survey Taker

You might take an opinion poll, answer questions about shopping habits or review a product. You're generally paid in cash (PayPal or mailed check) or with points that can be redeemed for gift cards.

How to Get It

Visit companies such as DarwinsData.com, PineconeResearch.com and PaidViewpoint.com. (Search "surveys" on RealWaystoEarnMoneyOnline.com for more options.) Then sign up with as many sites as you can. The sites will contact you when surveys that fit your demographic pop up, and you take them right away. A word to the wise: Do not register anywhere that has a membership fee, asks for your Social Security number or bank information, or is vague about payment.